Dear compatriots,
I congratulate you on the 70th anniversary of the unification of Western Byelorussia with the Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic.
On 17 September 1939 the Red Army began a liberation campaign with the aim of defending the Belarusian and Ukrainian population left to the mercy of fate in Poland at a time of the German invasion and the outbreak of World War II. That not only strengthened the security of the U.S.S.R. but also became an important contribution to the fight against Fascist aggression.
Regardless of the various points of view and assessments of the events related this date, one fact is beyond doubt: the military operation brought about the unification of the artificially divided Belarusian people, which became an act of historical justice. Conditions were created on the liberated lands for building a new life. Belarusians were given an opportunity to develop their own statehood as part of a unified national and territorial entity.
Today, the sovereign and peace-loving Belarus takes great care for its history, territorial integrity, and independence. Belarus has become home to representatives of various ethnicities who enjoy equal rights and opportunities, forming one nation.
I am convinced that due to our patriotism and unity we will stoutly overcome all difficulties and bring more strength and prosperity to our Fatherland.
I sincerely wish, dear countrymen, for your optimism, health, and happiness. | 
